Exclusive: Amazon strikes could spread as workers reach out to more depots

A GMB spokesperson told Retail Week some members are using their own time to speak to workers coming out of other depots during the five-day period of strikes.

“Strikers went over to speak to workers coming out of Coalville in Leicestershire and they will do the same again tonight in Mansfield,” they said.

“The union is growing every day with more and more Amazon workers realising that pay and terms and conditions need to be met by organising this through unions, and GMB has been at the forefront.”

Regarding further strikes, GMB said that is a “matter for our members” and this could be planned in the coming days.

Retail Week understands there have been some security concerns around the picket line in Coventry but Amazon said this is a matter for the police.

Amazon has acknowledged the strike action but has so far not engaged with members of the union.

The GMB spokesperson said: “Headlines have been around the 50p pay rise but really, members want Amazon to talk and they are determined for this to happen.

“The public reaction has been amazing and our strike fund has topped £17,000. There would be no Amazon without our workers and ultimately Amazon is going to have to come to terms with this.”

An Amazon spokesperson said: “A tiny proportion of our workforce is involved. In fact, according to the verified figures, only a fraction of 1% of our UK employees voted in the ballot – and that includes those who voted against industrial action.

“We appreciate the great work our teams do throughout the year and we’re proud to offer competitive pay that starts at a minimum of between £10.50 and £11.45 per hour, depending on location. This represents a 29% increase in the minimum hourly wage paid to Amazon employees since 2018.

”Employees are also offered comprehensive benefits worth thousands more, including private medical insurance, life assurance, subsidised meals and an employee discount, to name a few.”